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I was pregnant with Baby J and feeling like he would drop on the floor at any given moment. Jon was leaving for Phoenix later that day. An early, early phone call from Jon’s sister, asking if we heard.

And then the names. 11 names at first, finally, the 12th. 12 children. 12 mothers had their worlds shattered. Would 12 be significant at any other college? Does 12 hold the same meaning if you are a Bulldog or a Wildcat or a Volunteer? If you are anything but a Texas Aggie?

The bits I remember in the aftermath: football players helping remove the logs, the glow of candles spreading across Kyle Field the night bonfire should have burned, a somber halftime performance by the Texas band, the quiet of the crowd - silenced between each play, a player falling to his knees – a physical representation of how the crowd in maroon felt, scanning the internet for updates on the injured.

A memorial now stands on the site of bonfire. It is compelling and and it is powerful. It is a celebration of 12 lives. It represents the unique legacy that belongs to A&M, the tradition and spirit that binds each and every student, past and present and future.

I am reminded of the scene from "A Few Good Men" when Jack Nicholson's character is on the stand. Colonel Jessup says something along the lines of "...You want me on that wall. You need me on that wall."

His flawed character is completely correct in that statement. There are men and women, standing on on that wall, preparing to defend that wall, giving their lives to protect that wall. That wall stands, and for that I am grateful.

My old (I do not mean he is old in years. I mean from a while back when I was but an all-knowing and smart-mouthed youth. The "olden days," so to speak.) youth pastor posted this on my Facebook wall this morning. Thanks Rick!

And so November falls in line, sneaking in after the way-too-hot when the rest of America cools off October and the blur of activities, parties, shopping, traveling, and cooking that is December. It's the month of birthdays: Kay-Kay, me, Jon, Scott, Aunt Susan, Amanda.....just to name a few.

Today is Kay-Kay's. I am lucky to have such a wonderful mother-in-law.

My parents were here the past few days to watch Payne play and go to the A&M football game. I always love having them here.